This Easy Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole brings all the flavors of stuffed peppers without the fuss. It’s a warm mix of bell peppers, ground meat, rice, and tasty spices!
If you’re like me and sometimes skip the stuffing, this casserole is a real lifesaver. Toss everything in one dish, bake, and enjoy! It’s perfect for busy weeknights. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey is a lighter option if you want fewer calories. You could also use plant-based meat for a vegetarian version!
Bell Peppers: Any color works, but I prefer using a mix for visual appeal. If you have concerns about bell peppers, zucchini or eggplant can be great substitutes.
Rice: I typically use white rice, but brown rice or quinoa are excellent healthy substitutes. Just make sure they are cooked beforehand.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharpness. If you want a different flavor, try mozzarella for a milder cheese or a dairy-free version if you’re lactose intolerant.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole Has Great Flavor?
To pack in flavor, the key steps are in cooking the meat and seasoning. When browning the meat, let it develop a nice color to enhance the flavor. Season well while sautéing. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook the onions until soft for a sweet base flavor.
- Don’t rush the browning of the meat; letting it brown well gives a boost in taste.
- Let the mixture simmer with seasonings for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.
Easy Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 large bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to cook, for a total time of about 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick and hearty weeknight meal!
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for your casserole when it’s prepped.
2. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s softened, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will add a sweet base flavor to your dish.
3. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Stir until the meat is browned and no longer pink, which should take around 6-8 minutes. If there’s too much grease, feel free to drain some of it off.
4. Add Peppers and Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell peppers. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers start to soften. Their vibrant colors will make your casserole look amazing!
5. Mix in the Sauces and Seasonings:
Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes (don’t drain them), tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spice. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps all the flavors combine perfectly!
6. Combine with Rice and Cheese:
Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the cooked white rice and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well combined—this is the heart of your casserole!
7. Prepare for Baking:
Take a greased 9×9-inch baking dish and pour the mixture into it. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
8. Bake It Up:
Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This casserole is fantastic on its own, or you can pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your easy unstuffed bell pepper casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef and turkey are popular choices, you can also use ground chicken, pork, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times based on the meat you use.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. You can add a little extra cheese on top while reheating for a melty finish!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them finely and add them to the skillet along with the bell peppers.
